Story perspectives

Senegal's Assembly Doubles Penalties for Same-Sex Relations

3/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senegal's National Assembly approved a bill doubling penalties for same-sex relations, from five to ten years.
Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko introduced legislation redefining homosexual conduct as an offense and imposing 10 million CFA francs in fines.
The bill reflects an African trend, with 30 countries criminalizing same-sex relations.
Critics, including Human Rights Watch, warn the measure heightens discrimination and violence as the bill awaits President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's approval.

History

Historical Context

In 2014, Uganda's Parliament enacted the Anti-Homosexuality Act, imposing life imprisonment for same-sex relations, which drew widespread international condemnation. This law reflects a broader trend in Africa, where 30 countries criminalize homosexuality, often leading to increased violence against LGBTQ+ individuals. The recent Senegalese bill, which doubles penalties for same-sex relations, further exemplifies this alarming pattern of legislative homophobia.

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Story summary

Senegal's National Assembly approved a bill doubling penalties for same-sex relations, from five to ten years.
Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko introduced legislation redefining homosexual conduct as an offense and imposing 10 million CFA francs in fines.
The bill reflects an African trend, with 30 countries criminalizing same-sex relations.
Critics, including Human Rights Watch, warn the measure heightens discrimination and violence as the bill awaits President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's approval.

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